Document Type
Report
Publication Date
6-2026
Disciplines
Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics
Abstract
This study was designed to better understand residents’ perceptions of smaller, rural towns in Montana, along with their level of interest in visiting and participating in activities in American Indian communities across the state. The Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research (ITRR) conducts resident studies on a quarterly basis to better understand current topics throughout the state, with resident travel routinely serving as one of those topics. Recent efforts at the state level have focused on expanding Montana’s tribal tourism industry to provide economic benefits and to inspire visitation to Indian Country.
Respondents were asked to comment on how much they enjoyed visiting small, rural towns in Montana, along with cultural or historic sites and American Indian communities. Respondents were then asked to give their level of interest in visiting or participating in the following: American Indian museums or heritage centers, fairs or markets with native crafts to view or purchase, special events or festivals related to American Indian culture, demonstrations or immersive cultural experiences, and guided experiences provided by native-owned operators.
Keywords
Resident, Rural, American Indian, Indian Country
Rights
© 2026 ITRR
Recommended Citation
Bermingham, Carter, Schultz, Megan. (2026). Montana Resident Report, Q1 2026. Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, University of Montana. Missoula, Montana. 15p.
Included in
Agricultural and Resource Economics Commons, Leisure Studies Commons, Nature and Society Relations Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Regional Economics Commons